Bay of Islands Activities

Bay of Islands activities run from a morning kayak between the islands to an evening hāngī at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, and most fit together neatly from a base in Paihia or Russell. Some need a boat, some need walking shoes, and a few work on a wet day.

On the water: kayaking, snorkelling and sailing

Kayaking is the easiest way to get properly into the bay. The Island Discovery Tour starts with a 40-minute ferry ride to Otehei Bay, then a half-day of guided paddling past hidden beaches, with snorkelling gear, a drink and a snack included. First-time paddlers are welcome. The Island Adventure Tour is the full-day version through sea caves and around cliffs, and it isn't for beginners.

Snorkelling is built into the Bay of Islands day cruise with snorkelling and lunch, which also includes kayaking and an island walk. The Day in the Bay and tall ship cruises sit with the other Bay of Islands cruises.

Wildlife on the bay

Dolphins are the main wildlife draw. The Dolphin Eco Cruise is a 4-hour trip looking for dolphins, whales, seals and seabirds, with a swim option and a 1.5-hour stop on Urupukapuka Island. The fast boat, the Fast Boat Ocean Adventure, stops to watch wildlife on the way to Cape Brett and the Hole in the Rock. Sightings can't be guaranteed, so check each cruise's viewing terms.

After dark, the night walk in Puketi forest is the place for bats and a chance of a kiwi.

Forests, islands and Cape Reinga

On foot, the full-day Puketi kauri hike is a guided walk through kauri forest with views over the bay, with morning tea and lunch included and routes to suit different fitness levels.

Farther afield, the Cape Reinga day tour drives the length of Ninety Mile Beach with an optional sandboarding stop, and the Russell mini tour is an hour in the town that was New Zealand's first sea port. More of the same sit with the Bay of Islands tours.

History and culture at Waitangi

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds tell the story behind the Treaty of Waitangi. Cultural experience and day admission is valid for two consecutive days and covers a 50-minute guided tour, a 30-minute cultural performance and entry to the Te Kongahu and Te Rau Aroha museums.

From November to March, the hāngī dinner and concert adds an evening on the grounds, with a 30-minute Māori performance and a traditional hāngī meal at Whare Waka Café.

Wet days and family days

Rain doesn't empty the list. The two museums at Waitangi, the guided tour and the cultural performance give a wet day a clear plan. For families, the operator describes the half-day kayak trip as a good option, and the island-stop cruises add a beach and a swim.

The wider list of things to do in the Bay of Islands puts boats, forests and culture side by side, so a bad-weather morning can still end with a cruise in the afternoon.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best activities in the Bay of Islands?

Bay of Islands activities include a cruise to the Hole in the Rock, a guided kayak tour from Otehei Bay, a forest walk in Puketi, a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Cape Reinga day tour. The right one depends on the weather and how long you have.

Do I need experience to kayak in the Bay of Islands?

The half-day Island Discovery Tour needs no kayaking experience and suits first-time paddlers, with snorkelling included. The full-day Island Adventure Tour is for fit, experienced paddlers and isn't suitable for beginners.

What is there to do in the Bay of Islands when it rains?

The Waitangi Treaty Grounds has museums, a 50-minute guided tour and a 30-minute cultural performance, all covered by its day admission. Boat trips depend on sea conditions, which can change what the boats reach.

How long do I need at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds?

Waitangi Treaty Grounds admission is valid for two consecutive days. The day includes a 50-minute guided tour and a 30-minute cultural performance, with the museums and the grounds to explore in between.

Can you swim and snorkel in the Bay of Islands?

Yes. The day cruise with snorkelling and lunch, the Dolphin Eco Cruise's stop at Otehei Bay and the kayak tours all include time in the water, and snorkelling gear is provided on the kayak tours. Bring swimwear and a towel.

Are there family-friendly activities in the Bay of Islands?

Yes. Island-stop cruises with a swim at Otehei Bay, the Russell mini tour and the Urupukapuka Island walk all sell child tickets. Age and size limits vary by trip.

Pick one big thing for the day, a cruise or a kayak or a long drive north, and let the culture and the forest fill the gaps around it.